Periodontal Status and Thyroid Markers in Pregnancy

This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the association between periodontal status and serum thyroid markers among 100 systemically healthy pregnant women aged 18-45 years in the second trimester (13-27 weeks). Pregnancy is characterized by profound hormonal and immunological changes that influence both periodontal health and thyroid function. While periodontal inflammation has been associated with thyroid dysfunction in the general population, no study has explored this relationship during pregnancy. Participants will be recruited from the Department of Gynaecology, PGIMS, Rohtak, and undergo comprehensive periodontal examination, including periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), and plaque index (PI). Blood samples will be collected to assess thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), anti-thyroid peroxidase (Anti-TPO) antibodies, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP). The primary objective is to determine the association between PISA and serum TSH levels, while secondary objectives include evaluating the relationship of periodontal parameters with T3, T4, Anti-TPO, hsCRP, and the distribution of thyroid profiles (euthyroid, hypothyroid, and hyperthyroid) according to periodontal status. Data will be analyzed using appropriate descriptive statistics, Pearson/Spearman correlation, and multiple linear regression after testing for normality. By investigating the interplay between periodontal inflammation and thyroid function during pregnancy, this study seeks to generate novel evidence that may support integrated periodontal and antenatal care strategies, ultimately contributing to improved maternal and fetal health outcomes.